Things I liked: Cashore expands the fantasy world she created in the first book, but offers a new look at an area disconnected from that of her first book. I really loved all the magic, the characters, and the tie in with Leck from the first book.

Things I didn't like: there is a huge war in this book, and I grew tired of the main characters trying to figure out subplots. I much preferred the quest of the first book.

Things that continue to not bother me: this idea that the book is a controversial take on feminism, anti-men, anti-marriage, whatever else. This is a YA book, and I just don't get those big takeaways. For me, it's just entertainment.